Nashville

I’ll just say it: I’m a huge sucker for Tennessee engagement and wedding photos. Between our lovely landscape and the versatility of our locales, it’s hard not to adore the unique attributes of each picture surrounding the big day for Tennessee brides. That’s why I chatted recently with Nashville wedding photographer Chrissy Fogg of Catchy Photography, an amazing wedding photo service that consistently wows me with talent. (Check out her Spotlight post for even more info!) She had three quick but helpful photography tips to keep in mind while planning your lovely Tennessee engagement session and wedding. Read on to get in-the-know!

1. PosingDon’t feel bad if you’re worried about how to pose during your engagement photos. I think all of us ladies feel a little apprehension just before going in front of a camera lens. The fact is, though, you shouldn’t worry about this. Just be yourself. As long as you’re comfortable, you’ll look like yourself in your photos…which is exactly how you want to look, of course!
“I try not to comment on posing,” Chrissy details, “but sometimes when necessary, I give my clients tips.” She goes on to explain that the important thing is to get an idea for how you want your pictures to look, and make it happen. “Loosen up!” she exclaims. “Relax, and focus on each other. Don’t focus on the camera unless the photographer tells you to.”

2. Atmosphere and location

One aspect of your engagement session (and certainly your wedding) that probably does take a little mulling over is where you’ll have your pictures taken. The location basically sets the tone and atmosphere for your photos. Luckily, Chrissy has some great advice for this, too.
“Think of a fun place where you two met or somewhere you love,” she details. “That way, you’ll know where to go for the best shots and how to act.” The best part? You don’t have to think conventionally for this – just go where you love. “Think outside the box,” Chrissy goes on. “Bring your personality into the photos!”

3. Makeup and clothing choice

Whether or not you’re a makeup fanatic or fashionista, the whole idea here is to look like you – not someone else.
“If you do wear makeup, perhaps wear just a little bit more than normal to highlight what’s naturally beautiful about yourself,” instructs Chrissy. “On clothing for engagement sessions, wear what you’re comfortable in. Wear what’s you.” Don’t go for the fake glamour magazine version of yourself if that’s not who you are! Naturally, you will have chosen an amazing gown or outfit for your wedding day that will reflect your unique style. “People want to see you and your style as a couple,” states Chrissy. We totally agree!

Finally, the number one thing to practice thinking to yourself before and during any photography session is to pretend like the photographer isn’t there. The whole idea is to capture the essence of who you are as a couple…not of who you are when you’re preoccupied by thoughts about someone other than your future spouse.

If you’re on the fence about an engagement session, don’t be. Chrissy describes that she sometimes has couples who shy away from having engagement sessions, but that she feels the engagement session is extremely important – and for good reason!
“Your engagement session is the precursor to the wedding and allows you to get introduced to your photographer and his or her style before the stress of the big day, first and foremost,” Chrissy details. “It’s a chance to get acclimated with your photographer and for your photographer to get to know you, too!”

In other words, ladies, your first face-to-face with your photographer behind the camera should not be on the day of your wedding. Get comfortable with him or her beforehand via an engagement photo shoot, and it will be one less thing you have to worry about on your big day!

To contact Chrissy, visit her website, Facebook, and Twitter today, and give her a call at (256) 698-7958. Tell her The Pink Bride sent you!